Chelsea get their first offer for Alejandro Garnacho from Roma after Xabi Alonso’s tough words
Roma have made their first offer for Alejandro Garnacho after Chelsea decided he’s no longer needed, according to reports.
Garnacho joined Chelsea just a year ago, leaving Manchester United after falling out of favor under Ruben Amorim, in a £40 million deal. In his first season, the Argentina player scored eight goals in 43 games—but only one in the Premier League.
Now, he’s in a similar spot where Chelsea want to move him on. Even though he has six years left on his contract, Garnacho didn’t show up for pre-season training when the rest of the squad came back from the World Cup break.
Chelsea have plenty of options on the wings and are also bringing in Geovany Quenda for £40 million. In his first press talk as Chelsea’s new manager, Xabi Alonso made it clear that Garnacho isn’t part of his plans. He said, “We’ve talked to the sporting director, and there’s interest from another club, so let’s see how it goes. I hope it finishes well for everyone.”
Clubs in Saudi Arabia and Italy have shown interest, with Roma especially keen on the 22-year-old. Sky Sport Italy reports that Roma has made an opening bid, proposing a loan deal worth €5 million, with an option to buy for €35 million—this would become mandatory if certain conditions are met.
Though Chelsea want to sell Garnacho, this loan idea may not suit them since they value him around £43 million and prefer a permanent move.
Roma are eager to boost their team for next season, especially after qualifying for the Champions League. After locking in Paulo Dybala with a new contract, they are also talking to Crysencio Summerville from West Ham, who has caught the eye of many clubs after facing relegation. Roma told West Ham they won’t pay more than €40 million for Summerville and can only offer him up to €4 million in salary.
Another player Roma is considering is Diego Moreira from Strasbourg. The 21-year-old Belgian played in the World Cup and is represented by top agent Jorge Mendes, who’s helping find Moreira a new club. Strasbourg want about €50 million for him, but Roma’s first offer stands at €30 million plus 10% of any future sale.
Garnacho’s move to Chelsea was seen as a real win under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules because he had joined Chelsea’s academy from Atletico Madrid for only £100,000 in 2020. While some questioned the fee, Manchester United included a 10% sell-on clause in the deal, so they will benefit if Garnacho moves permanently from Chelsea this summer.